The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for a four-way quarterback competition as training camp approaches, with expectations of a clearer depth chart before the 2025 season. Among the contenders are rookie Shedur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, who joined veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett in the offseason. Sanders is reportedly gaining confidence that he could secure the starting role. Since 1999, Cleveland has had the highest turnover with 40 different starting QBs, but only three—including Flacco—had winning records.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that early in training camp, fans will witness all four quarterbacks competing in various team setups, with coach Kevin Stefanski soon setting the pecking order. Although Sanders stood out in spring activities, he mostly played with third-string teams against minimal pass rush, which is something to consider. It’s also unlikely the Browns will carry four quarterbacks on the regular-season roster, so some will likely end up on the practice squad.
Stefanski praised the rookie QBs’ dedication but did not commit to who will start this season. Recognizing Deshaun Watson’s established success, the Browns appear to be focusing on developing their young talent. The quarterback situation has sparked commentary from other NFL figures, including Browns’ wide receiver Dionta Johnson, former coach Eric Mangini, and ex-players TJ Houshmandzadeh and Johnny Manziel, with Manziel backing Sanders’ potential to win the starting job.
Fan Take: The Browns’ QB quarterback battle is crucial because it reflects the team’s effort to find long-term stability at a position that’s been a revolving door for decades. For NFL fans, this competition adds excitement and could signal a fresh start for Cleveland, potentially influencing the future of quarterback development league-wide.
